Review by SK, Guest Reviewer, www.DucksandPucks.com

Built in 1993 to welcome a new NHL franchise, the Honda Center is the home of the Anaheim Ducks.  The building is located on the opposite side of the 57 freeway from Angel Stadium, and is in perfect view when sitting high above home plate.

In 2006 the building got a new name and the team was given a new look.  The Arrowhead Pond became the Honda Center and the Mighty Ducks became simply the Anaheim Ducks.  Many fans have named the building the “Ponda” to affectionately refer to the building’s history.

Surrounded by picturesque palm trees, the arched entry ways of the Honda Center welcome fans from the often warm and sunny Southern California climate into the chilly temperatures required for an ideal ice surface.

With shiny marble tiles and the occasional gold embellishments, the Honda Center is considerably one of the nicer NHL establishments.  Not necessary top of the line, the Honda Center is ideally comfortable.  With a larger upper terrace level, affordable seating is widely available and easily accessible for all guests.  There isn’t a bad seat in the place.  With a capacity of 17,174, even when seated in the farthest row from the ice, there is still a great view.

The Honda Center plays host to several concerts over the course of the year.  In addition they host the John Wooden classic, the Circus, several on ice shows, the Harlem Globetrotters, and even professional Bull Riding.

Just a short ride from Los Angeles and the Staples Center, the Honda Center is often a great alternative for fans who would like the ease of parking, less traffic, and a more home-like feel.

The Honda Center is just a few miles east of the Disneyland Resort, where the Ducks franchise was originated.  While any ties to the Disney empire are no longer in existence, images from the Mighty Ducks’ past hang high in the rafters alongside Pacific Division, Western Conference, and Stanley Cup Championship banners.

I’ve been to hockey games in several arenas, and it always feels nice to come home to the Honda Center.  The ease and convenience of the location, the parking, the familiarity of employees, and the overall welcoming environment is always comforting.  Even though the game is played on ice, at the Honda Center it is always a warming experience.

FANFARE score: 27

Food & Beverage: 3

Probably the biggest downfall of the arena is the food selection.  Over the course of the past few seasons the Honda Center has seen several food endorsements come and go. Currently, Oggi’s Brewing Company has pizza by the slice at $9.  Other food selections are typical hotdogs from Franks-a-Lot, ranging from $4-$6 depending on the type of dog, regular and super nachos ranging from $7-$9, and burritos for $8.

While a majority of the food selection is typical, there are also chicken tenders, turkey club sandwiches, and sloppy joes available from $8-$10.  In addition to peanuts, sour candies, and red vines, fans also have the option of Popcornopolis caramel corn, zebra corn, and kettle corn for $6-$8.

However, the best bargain for the money might be the kid’s meal.  For just $5 you can enjoy a regular hot dog, bag of chips, fruit roll-up, and a small beverage.

As for alcohol, the Honda Center offers a wide variety of imported bottled beer and domestic draft selections including Miller, Coors, and Blue Moon, prices ranging from $7-$12 depending on size and selection.  In addition to a variety of beer, several booths line the concourse with selections of wine and cocktails starting at $9 for a small glass.

The Jack Daniels old No. 7 Club is a unique dining experience open only to guests seated on the 300 club level and selected suites.

Atmosphere: 3

There is nothing fancy about the Honda Center.  In fact, its down to earth charm is what makes it so welcoming to everyone who attends.  For many, it is the place to go for concerts, shows, and the occasional basketball game to avoid the drive into Los Angeles.

The historical significance is short and succinct, however in years to come it will always be the place where the Ducks threw gloves and sticks into the air as the clock wound down to their first ever Stanley Cup Championship.

Neighborhood: 5

Just across a riverbed, there are several restaurants such as Chili’s, Acapulco, King’s Fish House, Lazy Dog Cafe and Auld Irisher Pub.  Even closer to the front door of the Honda Center is JT Schmid’s Restaurant and Brewery.

Down the street is a local spot called Danny K’s Billiards.  With tons of beer on tap, and plenty of pool tables, it’s a great location to meet up with other fans before and after the game.

Across the freeway, fans can take in MLB action with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.  If you plan a trip to Southern California during the right time of year, you can catch a baseball game and a hockey game on the same trip.  Plan a stop to Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, or Knott’s Berry Farm, and it’s a great vacation for the whole family to enjoy.

Within 30 miles of Anaheim, fans can also see the Los Angeles Dodgers, Lakers, Clippers and Kings as well.  Just a few hours south are the San Diego Chargers and Padres.

Fans: 3

What makes the experience of watching games at the Honda Center so extraordinary are the fans. With hockey ignored so easily in a part of the country where basketball, baseball, and college football are dominating media headlines, the small and faithful fan base are what make Anaheim Ducks hockey special.  Many season seat holders can tell you they’ve been coming to the arena since the inaugural season over 16 years ago, and many will tell you that the sport has grown in such a short time.

The familiarity with the staff and fellow fans is what makes the energy in the building come alive when the Ducks take the ice.

Access: 4

Getting to the Honda center is relatively convenient from any location in Southern California.  With easy access from the 5, 57, 22, and 91 freeways, the only time there is a complication is when both baseball and hockey seasons overlap.  Parking can be pricey at $15, however locals know of hidden gems within walking distance for $5-$8.  For those willing to walk a bit further, streets and other parking corners near by can be found for free.  Driving along Cerritos and Katella Avenue, fans can find reasonable and easily accessible parking options.

In terms of restroom facilities, slipping away just 30 seconds before the end of the first or second period could mean saving yourself a 5-minute wait for the restroom.  In addition, there are plenty locations around the building with easy access for wheelchairs in every location.

Return on Investment: 4

There are very few entertainment options that cost less than $20 per person these days, but Anaheim Ducks hockey is one of them.  With the cheapest seats often running for approximately $16, visiting the Honda Center is a great option for taking friends and family for a night out.  With a team and sport exciting to watch, the unique nature that a hockey game brings to the warm Southern California climate is an experience in itself.  Most hockey markets command high prices for tickets, and for those looking to experience the game in a new destination, the Honda Center is perfect for the enthusiast on a budget.

In addition, the Ducks often offer value packs for ticketing than can include 10, 15, and half season mini plans.  Other offers throughout the season include 3-game packs with special items like scarves, beanies, and autographed merchandise as well as family four packs including hot dogs and sodas or two packs including hot dogs and beer.

Etc.: 5

Hockey’s uniqueness to Southern California makes it one of Anaheim’s best-kept secrets. Because demand on tickets is often low, prices are always kept reasonable no matter who is in town.  Season seats can be as cheap as $550 per seat in the upper terrace, and don’t often run more than $4000 for a glass view, a real bargain for the hockey enthusiast.  It’s a great place to bring a date, the family, and friends.

The franchise as a whole is remarkable as well.  Lead by owners Susan and Henry Samueli, the Anaheim Ducks hold several charitable activities throughout the season including Thanksgiving dinner served by players, open practice sessions for students to learn about the science of hockey, and several visits throughout the year to the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC).  In addition, charity golf tournaments, fashion shows, and casino nights allow fans to interact with their favorite players all while supporting the Ducks foundation.

The accessibility to the players is what makes Anaheim Ducks hockey so unique.  Players are often able to live and play in Southern California and go unrecognized.  Because of this anonymity, fans are able to experience special events and player autograph sessions unlike the other sport franchises in the area.

In addition to watching hockey, fans can learn about the science of hockey at the Discovery Science Center located just south of the Honda Center off of the 5 freeway. The exhibit includes looks into the locker room, chances to test your skills at getting one past the goalie, and being the goalie yourself.  In addition to the hockey exhibit, the Discovery Science Center can teach children and adults about various aspects of earth and physical sciences as well.